\U^' ^C' 



LIBRARY OF CQNGRESS. 

Slielf-_._^lB«72 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



JEWELED HEARTS: 



CI ^om<2^yt\c 2)llefob^a44ta, \m ^oaax^ fllcl:^. 



BY 



CHALMERS C. BROWN. 



OF 



TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA. .>, 

O O 2= IT I^ I G- KCT ^ft^ ^» :F= X^ I E: ID S^OIS.. ,. 

Mrs. George Stirling 

Miss Grace Stirling 

Little Pearl Stirling 

Mrs. Charles Augustus Moneymore 

3Iiss Ruth Hazelton 

Mrs. O'^Donavan 

Mr. Harry Lamar 

Mr. Hanz Kophjderheim 

Mr. Charles Rockmore 

Mr, Charles Augustus Moneymore ■ 



DISCRIPTION OF CHARACTERS AND COSTUMES. 



Mrs. Stiri.ing^A true and noble widow of 38 summers— one who's life is 
devoted to her children and the memory of her deceased husband. Neatly 
and modestly attired— no jewelry. 

Grace— A well-bred and refined Miss of 11 summers, who is not ashamed 
to assist her mother in earning an honest, living. First dress— either a scarlet 
or blue satin dress, hand-painted; very little jewelry, a becoming hat, neat 
hose and slippers, sunflower fan, and so attired as to appear bewitching, yet 
modest. Second dress— something appropriate for a military drill, but not 
dashing— high sandals, neat hat, gun, etc 

Pearl— A bright and charming little girl of 5 summers, who assists her 
sister in earning a living. Dressed same as Grace, with a slight contrast. 

Marie-So attired as to appear the character she represents— a novel-read- 
ing, romantic young bride— a would-be aristocrat. She carries a novel and a 
large fan, and wears considerable showy jew eiry. 

Ruth— So attired as to represent a sensible, modest and unassuming vil- 
lage maid of 22 summers, in moderate circumstances. 

Mrs. O'DoNAVAN— An Irish widow— I a mar's housekeeper, appropriately 

attired as such. 

Harry Lamar— A man of 46 summers, with hair tinged with gray, full 
chin beard and mustache, short-wears full business suit. Free hearted, and 
noble in his nature. 

Hanz-A good-natured, jolly German, the proprietor of a wine garden.- 
First dress— short, curly blonde hair, smooth face, yellow pants, red vest, sail- 
or's neck-tie, white shirt and slippers, f^econd dress-same, except he wears 
shoes and a coat with large pockets behi nd, and a cap. In 3d act he carries 
two large revolvers, a lunch bag containing an onion, cheese, etc. 

Charles Rockmore-A deep-dyed villain-very cautious, easy and grace- 
ful—thoroughly tutored in society eti(|uette. First dress-full-dress suit, 
black, silk hat, black mustache and gotee, neat jewelry. Second dress- same, 
except long, curly black hair, full chin beard, and slouch hat. Carries stil- 
letto and revolver, vial of chloroform, etc. 

CHARLES AUGUSTUS— A man of 60 sum laers-an excentric society fop.— 
Dressed in a stylish, light-colored walking suit, Gainsborough fiat, showy pin 
and rings, large watch fob-gray hair pa i ted in middle, gray side whiskers. 
Carries cane, eye glass and cigarette. 



Exits and Entrances.-R. means Right; L. Left; R. D. Right Door; L. D. 
Left Door; R. P. Right Perceniura; L.P.Lett Percenium; 2 E. Second En- 
trance; U. E. Upper Entrance; M. D. Middle Door; etc. 

Relative Positions.-R. means Right; L. Left; C. Center; R. C. Kigni 
Center; I-. C. Left Center; etc. The reader is supposed to be on the Stage, fac- 
ing the audience. 



TMP92-008705 



TERRS HAVTZ. "ID.: 
I. M. 2c C. C. Brown, Printers, A"ag. 1, 1882. 



JEWELED HEARTS; 

BY 

CHALMERS C, BROWN, 



ACT I. 

Scene 1. — A neat and picturesque Park in the Village of , 

on the banks of the Hudtfon Hiver, occupied by a German as 
a Wine Garden. The stage settings so arranged as to appear 
pleasing and inviting. A cottage on rights hammock up back, 
urns with plants, statuary, two wine tables, chairs, rustic set- 
tee, etc. A picturesque rietc of the Hudsoti and mountain 
range seen in the distance. At iHse of curtain, enter Marie 
{wife of Charles Aiigusfu.",) and Ruth, arm in arm, center, 
through Balustrade. 

Marie. — O dear me, I am so fatigued. [Meclines in hammock 
— Huth goes to settee.'] You know, cousin Rutii, that Charles 
Augustus and I seldom walk far when at home. We drive 
such a lovely span of blacks. O they are just exquisitely too too. 

Huth. — I am sure you enjoy your new home and pleasant 
surroundings very much. But, dear cousin, were you not 
a little hasty in marrying a man so much your senior? 

Marie. — Why, you silly girl. Have not a great many of our 
most fascinating novels led the blushing heroine to the altar 
with a jolly man of fifty, who's heritage ha,s ripened with his 
years? And do you suppose that Charles Augustus, who clubs 
with the brokers of Wall r^^treet, and has scarcely anything to 
occupy his time but honor invitations to dinner parties and re- 
ceive guests of rank and position, would think of marrying an 
old maid or a widow in black? Ha, ha, ha, the idea! His 
whole nature is full of romance, and he could be content with 
none but a young and blooming bride. And I— well, am much 
more content with being an old man's darling than I should 
of being a young man's slave. 



Ruth. — We came over on purpose to enjoy some of your 
choice Port wine. 

Hanz. — Dot vas tier pest vine von der whole country. It vos 
schlip down shust so easy like nodings. \^Exit Hanz for wine.'] 

Marie. — Charles Augustus, dear, assist me to dismount. 

Chas. Aug, — Certainly, my lamb, certainly. [^Grace and 
Pearl laughing ivithout.'] The little girls are coming this way 
— shall I invite them, my darling, to join us? 

Marie. — If they belong to our class of society it would be 
well. \_All seated. Enter Grace and Pearl from, cottage^ admiring 
their new dresses without observiny any one.] 

Pearl. — What would mama think to see us now in our hand- 
some new dresses ? 

Grace. — I expect she would think that we have walked to the 
end of a rainbow and found a pot of gold. 

Pearl. — Hanz is the best man ever was for making us such a 
nice present. 

Grace. — Yes, indeed. They cast a sad reflection on our old 
outfit. [Enter Hanz with ivine and C. A. pays as he sets wine 
on table. 

Hanz.—¥L?i\\o^ you vas got der new frocks on, eh? How 
you like 'em ? 

Grace. — O, they are ever so nice. 

Chas. ^w^.— Little girls, will you not join us ? 

Grace. — [Bowing.] No, thank you ; we never indulge. 

Pearl. — [Bowing.] No, we never ; " cause mama says we 
musn't." 

Marie. — How imprudent for little girls to be running about 
without attendants. 

Hanz. — I vos shust look a leetle oudt von der shilderns. 

Chas. Aug.—^di,, ha, ha ! O, I see— they are the little girls 
who entertain your guests at times, eh ? 

Hanz.— Y2ih. 

Chas. Aug. — Will they not honor us with something to while 
away the time? 

jfiTans.— Vel, I sbose tey could, put tey vas cume von der re- 
hearsal. May pe dot tey vas sboke sometings. [To Grace.] 
You didn't vas mind dot, eh? 

Grace. — Something pathetic, comic, or esthetic? 

Jfarie,— O dear, nothing esthetic. It is to utterly ut for any- 
thing. [Grace gives choice reading.] 



Ruth. — That was very interesting, to me, at least. \_To Pearl,'] 
A.nd cannot you give us something too? 

Pearl. — Yes mam. I will tell you about \_After reciting 

Pearl goes to Marie for a contribution^ and says:] Anything from 
a postage stamp to a gold dollar is always thankfully received. 

Marie. — O dear, how brazen ! 

Pearl. — Yes, it's a terrible thing for poor children to want 
money. [7b Chas. Aug.] If you please? 

C%as. Aug. — [^Fumbling in pockets.] 1, I, I don't believe I 
have any small change — another time, sissie, another time. 

Pearl.— ITo Ruth.] And will you— 

Ruth. — O yes, I have some change. [Gives money.] 

Pearl.— [Bowing.] Thank you. [Goes to Grace^ and they 
walk slowly back.] 

Marie. — Charles Augustus, I think we had better go; it is al- 
most time for our evening drive. The monotony of the park 
is so trying on one's nerves. 

Chas. Aug, — I believe we had, my dear, I believe we had. 
[Going off.] 

Ruth. — Good by, all. [ Grace and Pearl throw her a kiss.] 

Ham. — Vel, shust calls some oder dime, ven it vas conwen- 
ient. [Exit C. A., Marie and Ruth U. E.] 

Grace. — Now, Hanz, let us rehearse our new piece. Pearl 
and I wish to make a good impression upon the excursionists 
who will assemble here next Saturday. 

Hanz. — Dot's puliy, und you vas make der bockets full mit 
monies. [Grace and Pearl come forward.] 

Pearl. — O dear, that lady was just too too esthetically ut. 
[Trio song and dance.] 

Hanz. — It vas petter dot you shange der frocks, und bractice 
a leelle von der trill. 

Grace. — Au revore, Hanz. 

Pearl. — Ta, ta, Hanz. [Exit both into cottage.] 

Hanz. — Dose shilderns vas pin habby von der new frocks. I 
vas glat dot I pied tem. Der boor mooter vas pin bleased of 
she see der gals von der new frocks. [Hums some German air 
as he gets glasses from table and goes into cottage. Enter Charles 
Rockmore L. U. E. He sloivly and gracefully surveys the sur- 
roundings — sits at table— touches gong. Re-enter Hanz.] 

Hanz.—[Courtising.] Gude efenings. I didn't vas know dot 
you cume. 



8 

Rockmore. — Have you some really good wine? 

Hanz. — Vel, I should schmile I haf. I didn't vas sell no 
Oder kindt. Der pest of it kilts der beoples quick enough mit 
oudt sellin rat boisen. 

Ixochnore. — You are rather open in your confession, consid- 
ing the banner you sail under. 

Hanz.—iyQv vas no use dellin von sthory ven der druth vas 
shust so gude. \^Gets ivine.'] 

Rockmore. — [Drinks and puts down glass.'] Very good, in- 
deed. You have an exceedingly fine place here. It strikes 
me as something out of the usual routine for so small a town 
to boast of. 

Hanz.— Dot ish so; und I vas batronized py der resbecdable 
beople all together; und I vas make it more bleasant ash a 
shurch social. Der beoples cume of dis blace ter rest a vile, 
und trink der vine, und got der luncheon, und schmoke, mit 
oudt der roughs hangin roundt von der dreats. Und peside 
all dot, der leetle fairies, Grace und Pearl Stirling — 

Rockmore. — [Stay^ting violently^ and hissing through his teeth.'] 
Grace and Pearl Stirling ! 

Hanz. — Vy, vat der tuyvel vas der matter mit yourself? 

Rockmore.— Oh, nothing. I am troubled with heart disease, 
and sudden cessations of the heart, when it fails to properly 
perform its functions, almost unmans me at times. It is all 
right now. Proceed. 

Hanz.—Vy shimminies, dot vas pad ! Vel, Grace und Pearl, 
tey vas cume roundt a couble a dimes a veek und dance, und 
sing, und trill mit der guns, und make lots of funs shust like 
der show beoples. O, tey vas der poss schilderns; und shust 
so burty like von bicture. Der mooter vas not so wery stoudt, 
und der gals vas make monies dot vay to help tings along. 
Dot vas nice in dem, too. 

Rockmore.— TqW me something of their mother! I take a 
deep interest in helping the poor, when they are worthy. 

Hanz.—\e\, you shust pet der poots dot families ish worty. 
Put I didn't vas could toldt you so wery moch apoudt dot 
Mrs. Stirling; only dot she vas a nice voomans. She va^ a 
vider ven she cume mit der blace, more ash tri months ago. 
Und Grace she cume of mine frau und ask vere she vind oudt 
some sewing for der mooter. Poorty soon she cume roundt 
vonce more, und ask me how I like ter haf her und leetle 



Pearl cume of der park in der efenings, und dance, und sing, 
und nunder tings ter blease der beoples. By sliimniinies, dot 
caught me right a vay ! I vas pin dot kindt of a rooster mine- 
self. Und efry podies vas cume to see tose schilderns make 
funs. 

Hoc kmore.— Bid Grace ever tell you what became of her 
father? 

Hanz. — Yah. Grace doldt me dot her fader vas got mur- 
tered und robt mit der shib. Poorty soon ofter Pearl vas porn, 
der mooter vas got awful sick, und Mr. Stirling vas daken der 
families of Europe ven he vas kildt. Und den Mrs. Stirling 
haf ter sell all her shewelries und tings mit der bawn prokers 
ter life mit dill she vas got sthoudt. 

Rockmore.—D\(\ you ever learn where thej^ resided previous 
to coming here, and what her maiden name was? 

Hanz.— You tink dot I vas bump der schild und vind oudt 
der whole bedigree? Dot vas not mine pizness. Yel, oxcuse 
me, I vas got ter put some luncheon mit der dables on. 
\_Crosses B.'] I pet me more ash dwo dollar und fufcy cent dot 
vellers vas a vly crook, und I vas shust keep me von eye oben 
mit him. [^Exit Hanz into cottage. 

Hockmore.—Ha, ha, ha! So the Dutchman doesn't know 
their pedigree. Well, I do ; and it is lucky forme that cir- 
cumstances compelled me to lay overbore all night, else I may 
never again have been able to renew the trail she has so deftly 
covered up. Curse her! Since the day she raised her proud 
head and scorned my proffer of marriage I have been like a 
blood-hound upon her track. I have so far succeeded in bring- 
ing her to absolute poverty that she must needs now allow her 
daughters entertain the customers of a Dutch -wine garden. I 
shall loiter near by, to get a glimpse of the fairies, as the 
Dutchman calls them ; then get the bearings of their humble 
home, and before to-morrow's sun peeps from the orient to 
proclaim another day, I shall have set a new trap to engulf 
their dear mama. When the last of all she holds dear on this 
earth is gone, then she will do my bidding, or wither, like a 
faded flower, and pass away, with no one to mark the spot 
where she lies. [ Walks back, sits, reads paper, and takes notes. 
Enter Mr. Harry Lamar, L. U. E., as Hanz returns with lunch.'] 

Lamar.— Good evening, Hanz. 

Hanz.—YQl, py shimminies, wickates ! How it vas I vind 



10 

oudt dot you cume see me? It vas der virst dime dot you 
efer vas pin here. I didn't vas could make it oudt. 

Lamar. — Yes, the first time, Hanz. I am negotiating for 
this property, and have called with the view of learning just 
what condition it is in, and of ascertaining from you your idea 
of its value. 

Hanz. — Vel, I tot it vas vunny I vind you here — und dot ox- 
blains it. Der house und grounds vas in fine condition — petter 
ash nefer pefore; und I tinks me dot it vas wort efrey cent of 
five dousant dollar und fufcy cent. 

Lamar. — Very well, Hanz, I shall take into consideration 
the estimate you place upon it; and I find the grounds present 
a very creditable appearance. You see, the heirs to this 
estate are not satisfied with their income, and are determined 
to sell; so I have concluded to buy to prevent it falling into 
the hands of parties who might make it a disreputable place. 
And in such an event, my homestead, being near by, would 
be rendered worthless, to me at least. 

Hans. — {^Scratching his fiead.'] How vas dot, now ? Of you 
py der broperty, den I vas got ter back ub und skib, eh ? 

Lamar, — Oh, no, Hanz, not necessarily. You bear the repu- 
tation of being an honest, sober and upright man. One who 
has never been known to violate a single clause of the law 
governing your business. You have never been drunk, nor 
have never been known to either give or sell a drop of liquor 
to a minor, or even to a man who was in the habit of getting 
drunk. I am ably informed that there was never a man even 
allowed to drink enough liquor on these premises to become 
intoxicated. I have also learned that not only do you refuse 
to give an inebriate liquor, but that you are untiring, in your 
good, easy way, in persuading them to abstain from its influ- 
ences all together. You have, in many instances, co-operated 
with the temperance league in furnishing subsistence to the 
families of such men, and in helping to raise the poor mortals 
from their damning curse i ack to manhood. No, Hanz, 
though T have been a temperance man all my life, and spent 
much time and money in assisting wretchedly wrecked hu- 
manity, yet I can proudly grasp you by the hand, and say: 
that so long as our beautiful land must tolerate the sale of in- 
toxicating liquors as a beverage, may the All Wise Providence 
place it in the hands of such men as you to mete out. 



11 

Hanz. — Vel, I nefer tot so moch ash dot apoudt it. Ve vas 
got burty gude und sdrong laws mit dis coundry, und vy in ter 
tuyvel dondt der beoples make der saloon keebcrs lif ub mit 
dem? 

Zama/'.— "Ah, there's the rub," Hanz! We have offices of 
every conceivable nature, so woven together in their calling, 
and so appointed as to carry out to the letter every law upon 
our statutes, that if filled by men who held the people's inter- 
est at heart, they could so tighten the meshes as to compel 
every saloon-keeper to conduct their business as you do yours. 
But there is seldom more than one or two men in a community 
who consider their oath of office anything but a mere matter 
of form, and never pretend to fill it with any purpose other 
than to pocket the money it guarantees them, or to receive the 
sham honors with which it invests them. But I do not wish 
to be making a speech here, Han/., so T shall bid you a friendly 
good evening. IGrace and Pearl R, U. E. marking time— Grace 
says: Shoulder arms! Company by twos, file right— march ! 
They still mark time until Hanz says:'] 

Hanz.— Shust you vait a minute, und I vas make you oc- 
quainded mit doze leetle gals vot mo vet here vile you vas pin 
avay. 

lEnter Grace and Pearl with guns— coming down C. they give 
military movements by music— then go through manual of arms 
without speaking — give salute.'] 

Hanz.—Grdce und Pearl, I vas indrotuce mit you mine 
vriendt, Mr. Lamar. [They courtesy very low.] 

iamar— Bless me! I was not aware that our little village had 
been graced with your presence during my absence. But I 
trust we shall learn to know each other better, and that our 
acquaintance will prove both pleasant and agreeable. [Pearl 
boivs and runs to hammock.] 

Grace.— Thanks, sir. And I trust our acquaintance with 
you, as with many other gentlemen we have met here, will 
grow in interest and respect. 

Pearl.— 0\ Hanz! please make some lemonade, for I am so 
thirsty. If you will I'll promise to be real nice to you? 
/icms;.— Yah, I vill. [To Lamar] I vas alvays make schwi 
glass lemonade mit der gals ven tey cume— now I make fere— 
so shust sid town und ve haf von pully doast. 

Lamar.— Y^xy well, Hanz. I shall honor you this time. 
[Lxit Hanz into cottage. Lamar and Grace sit at table.] 



12 

Pearl. — Trol-a-loo, Hanz. Oh, Mr. Lamar: how many lit- 
tle children have you got at your house? 
Lamar. — None at all, Pearl. I am what is called a bachelor. 
Pearl. — Aint got no little girls or boys! Well, isn't that too 
bad. Mama says she doesn't know what she'd do if she didn't 
have Grace and I; because we're all that's left to comfort her, 
and make life worth living for. She gets awful sad sometimes, 
and it's all Grace and I can do to make her laugh. 

Grace. — Yes, but when mama feels real well then she is just 
as lively as a kitten, and we have more fun with her than a 
little. Why, she acts just like a little girl herself, and does so 
many cute things to amuse us. 

Lamar. — It is evident that your mama is a true, constant, 
and noble woman; for it is easy, in one accustomed to reading 
human nature, to see the character, disposition and everyday 
life of a mother reflected in her children. The mother who is 
so disposed to spend a portion of each day in romp and play 
with her children is richer, in the eyes of the public, than the 
most pompous millionheir. The parents who teach their chil- 
dren, by acts and deeds, to love them above all others, and 
make them their confidents in all things, are truly Godly. 

Grace.— Well, if you don't talk just like mama does. One 
would think, if they were not otherwise informed, that you 
were both reared under the same roof. It is true, as Pearl said, 
that mama gets very sad sometimes ; and oh ! I have tried so 
hard to get her to tell me what caused the sadness. But she 
would only say— "not now, my child. When you are older I 
may tell you. Your life is full of sunshine now, and I wish it 
to remain so." And one night— just before w^e moved here— 
when she thought Pearl and I were asleep— I heard her pray- 
ing—and she said, "Oh, my God! have you, too, forsaken me? 
My means of support is almost gone; my health is failing; and 
my friends have all deserted me. Am I ever to be shadowed 
and persecuted so mysteriously by him who leaves me no 
chance or clue by which my injuries may be righted?" Those 
words have ever lain heavily upon my mind, I shall never 
forget them. The next morning I asked mama what she 
meant; but she only smiled, and said she was declaiming, for 
passtime, a piece she had learned when a little girl. But she 
is looking so much better, and has been real jolly since we 
moved here. And Pearl and I are delighted with the grand 



13 

scenery along the Hudson. On a Sunday, not long since, Hans 
took us ever so many miles up the river in a sail boat. 

Pearl. — Yes, and we had the jolliest time ever was. I caught 
two little fishes. They were just too handsome. Hanz said 
they were too little to eat, and wouldn't let me bring them 
home. I put them back in the w^ater, and they swimed off. 
Hanz bought some nice big ones, though, for us take home. 
He's awful good. \_Enter Hanz with lemonadeJ] 

Hanz. — Here vas der lemonade. Cume now, Pearl, und 
trink yours. \_All seated.^ 

Lamar. — AVell, Hanz, since you proposed giving a toast, we 
shall be patient listners if you will honor us. 

Hanz. — Vel, here vas der gude health mit us all, und may 
dese shilderns nefer got mixed ub mit vorse combanies ash 
tey vas now. 

Lamar. — Very appropriate, indeed, Hanz. I see that you 
honor and respect them with as true a heart as if they were 
your own. So I shall add to your toast by saying: May true 
society never scoff at or look down upon them in their present 
calling, but ever extend a willing hand to assist them in reach- 
ing that position among humanity where the gods are pleased 
to smile upon. 

Grace — Many thanks, gentlemen. And here's that I, per- 
sonally, may soon know, and meet, face to face, the foul assas- 
sin of my noble father. 

Rockmore, — \_Aside.'] Could they have overheard me solilo- 
quising a moment ago; or is fate slowly unraveling the hidden 
mysteries of the past? By jove! I feel a little queer. The 
shades of night suits my purpose best. I shall abide the time. 
\^Exit Rockmore L. U. E.'] 

Hanz. — Gracie, dot may pe all right dot you meet dot vellers 
vace mit vace, put I tink it vas petter dot you dondt. 

Lamar. — Why, how is that, Miss Grace — your father assas- 
sinated? 

Hanz.—^\\\M$X, nefer mindt pout it now. I vas dolt you all 
pye und pye. Cume, Pearl, vas you got von doast too? 

Pearl. — Yes sir-e, of course I have. 

Hanz. — Vel, sbit it oudt. 

Pearl. — May somebody that I love not have to work much 
longer, and have a nice home, and a horse and carriage, and 
everything nice. 



14 

Lamar. — Who is it, Pearl, that is in need of all these things, 
and that you prise so highly? 

Pearl. — My mama! 

Lamar. — Nobly said. 

Ilanz. — Dots pully. It vas der pest doast mit all. 

iamar.— Here, Pearl, take this, \_Gives her money.'] and may 
it aid you in helping to accomplish the end you so long for. 

Pearl. — Oh! thank you, sir. You put it in your pocket, 
Grace; I might lose it. 

Gixice. — {Holding out money.] Have you not made a mis- 
take, Mr. Lamar; it is an hundred dollars? 

Lamar. — No, keep it. 'Twill do you more good than me. 

Hanz. — Py shimminies, dot vas make you rich! So cume, 
now, got der guns und show Mr. Lamar how you vas shoot. 

Grace. — With the greatest of pleasure. Hans, please arrange 
a target; and if Mr. Lamar will honor us by loading the guns, 
we will give an exhibition for his own gratification. 

Lamar. — Certainly. 

Hanz. — Gracie, shust steb mit der house in und got der dar- 
get guns, vile I make ready der oder tings. {Exit Grace.] 

Pearl. — Are you fond of hunting, Mr. Lamar? 

Lamar. — O yes, I am very fond of such sport. 

Hanz. — Vel, I should snicker dot he vas. I pet me dwo tol- 
lar und fufcy cent dot he kill more ash a tozen pig pears ven 
he vas mit California in. 

Pearl. — Oh, my ! {Enter Grace with guns.] 

Grace. — Here they are, and the cartridges. {Hands them to 
Lamar.] 

Hanz. — Now see of you hit dot tri dimes a bieee. {Gj^ace 
leads off, and ivhile shooting any by-talk to suit the occasion may 
be gotten off.] 

Lamar. — {After the shooting.] Every day I become more 
and more convinced that the women of America, in no distant 
future, will be wielding a power equal to man in every re- 
spect. Not only at the polls with their ballots for truth, hon- 
esty, and morality, but that they will be fully prepared and 
competent to wield a mighty power on the field of battle as 
well. When woman stands on an equal footing with man in 
all things, then will our proud flag not only be feared and 
honored by all nations, but it will be truly blessed. {Hanz and 
children salute him. Curtain.] 



15 

ACT II. 

Scene 1. — Home of Mrs. George Stirling. Cheap furniture — every 
thing neat and tidy. Table in center — paper ^ pen, ink, lamp, 
etc. Large portrait of George Stirling on easel. At rise of 
curtain 3frs. Stirling is discovered sitting by table sewing. 

Mrs. S. — I wish I could shake off the strange feeling I have 
had all day. For the first time since I left New York that 
strange foreboding — that something which seems to come in 
the form of a presentment — hangs heavily upon my mind. 
Only too well have I learned its meaning. Yet what harm 
can come to us here? Perhaps it would have been better h id 
I assumed another name — but why should I? God knows I 
never, in all my life, committed an unpardonable sin, in 
thought, word, or deed. I cannot remember of ever harming 
anyone, or doing a single thing to render any person unhappy. 
Yes — once. But in that I was justifiable. [Mockmore at center 
door, knocking.^ I wander who that can be? Possibly some 
of the neighbors. [Oj^ens door.] 

Rockynore. — \In door, disguised.^ Have I the honor of ad- 
dressing Mrs. Stirling? {^Presents his card.~\ 

Mrs, S. — Yes sir. Will you walk in. Be seated, please. 
[^Looks at card, and turns to him saying:~\ Mr. Jennings, have 
we ever met before; or do you call as a stranger? 

Rockmore. — Yes, we have met before — at wide intervals 
through life. The last time, if I remember rightly, it was in 
Liverpool — about six months after the death of your husband. 
And— 

Mrs. S. — Mr. Charles Rockmore — for now I know you — w^hy 
do you come here, disguised, and under an assumed name? I 
had thought our acquaintance ended some five years ago! 
{^Pointing to door.~\ Go! It is not fitting that I should allow 
you an audience with me. 

Rockmore. — Do not be too hasty, madam. Be seated, and 
I shall explain. 

Mrs. S.—l. cannot perceive of any good that may result from 
an explanation — but since you are here, and wish it— I grant 
you a hearing. [>S%.9.] 

Rockmore. — Even before George Stirling claimed you for his 
wife I loved you ; *' but like a cringing fool bowed at a distance, 
while he stepped in and won you." From that day until the 
assassin's hand made you a widow, "I plunged in vice. Night 



16 

after night found me at the gaming table. I led a wild and 
reckless life." All, all this was done to root out the strong 
love I bore you ! I allowed you to live in peace and quiet, 
and George Stirling to enjoy the love which I seemed born to 
claim, without a murmer! By chance, I was on board the 
same ship— sailing for the same port — when your husband fell. 
And though I envied him w ith all the jealousy the human 
heart is capable of, yet I should have struck down the assassin 
on the spot, had I known who he was ! The man whom it was 
afterward believed committed the deed received his reward. 
You were sick at the time — among strangers — and rendered 
penniless, except through the medium of your jewels. Assist- 
ance came to you immediately, in the way of extra nurses and 
plenty of money. On arriving at Liverpool you found a good 
home, good attendants, and all that mind could wish for. Six 
months had passed before you were stout enough to be about. 
Then, and not till then did you learn from whence this succor 
came. I called upon you — threw myself at your feet — and of- 
fered you all I possessed on earth for the priviledge of calling 
you my own. You requested me to leave you alone in your 
misery until you had time to reflect upon the matter. The 
following day I departed for London ; and at the end of tw^o 
months returned ; to find you— gone. My banker handed me 
a letter that was left, by you, in his keeping. This letter con- 
tained a check for all monies I had expended upon you and 
your children. It contained the respects of a mother for the 
timely yet unsolicited aid and care of herself and little ones. 
And it contained a point-blank refusal to accept my proffer of 
marriage! You rehearsed at length my past life ; and consid- 
ered it an unpardonable sin to allie the future of the wife of 
George Stirling with Charles Rockmore! For the children's 
sake, if for no other, you considered it right and just to decline. 
Mrs. S.— And is it to relate all this that you have called? To 
refresh the memory upon a theme that should be forever hur- 
ried with the past? Mr. Charles Rockmore, I ow^e you noth- 
ing! At school, while yet in your teens, you were credited 
with devising plots and schemes that would undermine the 
very devil himself! You took advantage of me in my mis- 
fortune, and lavished wealth upon me and my children with- 
out my knowing from whom or whence it came! You weighed 
every kindness — every dollar — in the balance well! Knowing 



17 

that if I should decline your offer of marriage, I would sell the 
last jewel I possessed— even to my wedding ring— to repay 
you! You reckoned well; for the last vestage went to pay that 
debt! You followed me to New York — found me in a shop, 
sewing for a paltry sura that barely furnished sustinance for 
my children. In less than a year later I was charged with 
theft and dismissed. I knew at the time who laid the plot, 
but was powerless to rasent it. Every place I obtained work 
afterward a similar fate befel me. My most intimate friends 
grew suspicious of me; and at last, heart-broken, sick and al- 
most penniless, I found refuge here. Grace and Pearl saw 
that something must be done to prevent the wolf entering our 
door, so they took advantage of what a young cadet and my- 
self had taught them, and are now amusing the customers of 
a German wine garden for means by which to sustain life. Is 
not the wreck you have made of me and mine complete? Are 
you not satisfied? 

Rockmore. — Yes. I shall make amends for all that has past. 
Come, forget and forgive; and trust your future happiness into 
my keeping ! 

Mrs. S. — Villianl Though you dispised George Stirling, and 
have insulted his wife, yet spare the mother of his children! 
Go! Your presence is too revolting for human eyes to tolerate! 

Rockmore. — Will you still be a fool? Come, listen to reason! 
{^Takes hold of her.'] 

Mrs. /S'.— Unhand me! [Jerks loose.] Oh! how^ I wish the 
earth could open, like the jaws of a monster demon, and burry 
you within its utmost depths for ever! Leave me! and I shall 
allow you to depart in peace; else I shall call the neighbors. 

Rockmore.— [Drawing stilletto.'] Not now— I have gone too 
far! Utter one cry for help, and I shall plunge this dagger in- 
to your heart! and then my own. 

Mrs. xS'.— Villian ! You have me in your power; yet I do not 
fear you. If it were not for my children's sake I should com- 
pell J ou to leave the house, or execute the deed your cowardly 
lips have just proclaimed! 

Rockmore.— [Replacing dagger.] Go on, go on I Vent your 
spleen with all the scourge your proud nature can heap upon 
me. And when you have done, sit down and cry. Women 
are always more considerate, and more easily tamed, after they 
have had a good crying spell. 



18 

Mrs. S. — Oh ! you inhuman, torturing wretch ! IJfaddened, 
starts at him.'] 

Mockmore. — [^Hastily di^aws dagger.'] H-u-s-h ! Some one 
comes ! Make one movement, or utter a single word to arouse 
suspicion, and you die! \_She sinks in chair L. Rockmore sits 
at table C. and tvrites. Enter Grace and Pearl C. D.; set guns 
aside ^ then go to Mrs. S. and kiss her.] 

Pearl. — Oh, mama! we had such a splendid time this even- 
ing. There weren't many at the park, but we got more money 
than ever before. Grace, show it mama. 

Grace. — [Motioning silence.] No. I wish to have mama 
guess. Mama, who is the gentleman, that you do not intro- 
duce us? 

Mrs. /S. — [Agitated.] A tax assessor. 

Grace. — Why, mama, you look so queer? Are you sick? 

3frs. S. — No, dear. My mind has been somewhat troubled. 
But all will be well with me soon. 

Pearl. — Oh, dear! I am getting so sleepy. Mama, may I lie 
upon the lounge awhile? 

3frs. S. — Yes, dear. Perhaps sister will lie down and rest 
with you. [She kisses them.] 

Grace. — After a while, mama, I will tell you about the hand- 
some presents that Hanz gave us to-day. [They go to lounge.] 

Mrs. S. — Very well. I shall be pleased to learn what they are. 

Rockmore. — Excuse me, children, but I should like for you 
to remain quiet while I draft these papers. [Children lie down 
and go to sleep.] 

3frs. S. — [Rising.] Well, sir; is your mission ended? 

Rockmore. — [Rising.] Your attention for a moment, if you 
please? [She goes to table.] Be seated, please. I have written 
here a full pardon for myself, from you ; and a promise, from 
you, that under no consideration will you ever reveal what 
has passed between us. Sign this paper, and I shall depart 
from beneath your roof— never to molest you again in all my 
life. [She takes up pen ^ examines the paper, and signs.] 

3frs. S. — Oh ! can it be that my constant prayer has been 
granted at last? Heaven be praised that the curse which has 
been sapping my life is at an end ! [She attempts to rise; stagers; 
faints. Rockmore catches her, and eases her down on floor.] 

Rockmore. — The sudden joy of being freed from my clutches 
was too much for her, and she has swooned away. Now to 



19 

strike the final blow, that will make her get upon her knees 
and accept my hand, or die from grief. [He produces handker- 
chief and vial; steals upon the children; chloroforms them. Goes 
to door^ looks out^ and returns to carry off children. As he gets 
in door with Pearl, he says:'] " Farewell! And if for ever, fare- 
the-well ! " You flitted around, like a silly fly; guarding well 
the webs that were spun to ensnare you, to enter the most 
deadly and obscure one at last. [_Exit with Pearl C. D.~\ 

Hanz.—\_ Withotd, knocking at C. Z).] It vas no podies put 
me; Hanz, vot lifs mit der bark, {^Peeping in.l Vel, py shim- 
minies! all gone mit der peds in, und leaf der toor oben! \_Steps 
in and calls:] Gracie! vas you got home? {_Sees Mrs. S.] Py 
shimminies! I vonder vat's der madder mit Mrs. Stirling! 
Maype dot she pudge a leetle ven der shilderns vas pin oudt. 
[Peeps in side room.] Der shilderns vas not cume home yet. 
I vonder how dot vas. I go vindt tem. [Starts, sees guns, etc.] 
Vel, here vas der guns und tings; I vonder vere in ter tuyvel 
doze shilderns vas? [Galling.] Mrs. Stirling, vere vas Grace 
und Pearl? She vas sleeb awful soundt. [Shakes her gently.] 
Cume, vake ub! Py shimminies! vas she gone deadt! [Listens 
to her breathe.] No; she vas preathe. I vonder of she got zick 
und vaint; und der shilderns vas gone mit der tocdor? Vat 
I do ! Vat vill I do ? [Sees water picher.] Of she vas got zick 
und vaint, I but vater mit der vace on, und den she vas got 
avake. [He pretends to sprinkle her face; she moves; he raises 
her head; she speaks,] 

Mrs. S. — Where am I? Who's here? Is he gone? 

Hanz. — Dis vas me, Hanz, vat lifs mit der bark. Vat's der 
madder mit you, somehow? 

Mrs. S. [Looking around.] Is he gone? Grace and Pearl, 
where are they? [Rises.] 

Hanz. — I didn't vas could dolt you. Tey vas gone ven I 
cume. A shentlemans, town mit der bark, gif Pearl von hun- 
tred tollar dis efenings; und efrey zince der shilderns vas pin 
gone I feels me sometings here, [heart.] und here, [head.] vat 
zay to me — look a leetle oudt mit der shilderns; tey vas got 
robt, or sometings like dot. I vas pin so oneasy poudt it dot 
I didn't vas could rest dill I cume see how it vas minezelf. 
Now I vindt Grace und Pearl gone, und you vaint mit der 
vloor on. How vas dot? 

Mrs. iS^.— Oh ! my God ! I see it all ! The children were 



20 

asleep when I fainted. He must have carried off my babies! 
Oh! heavens! can it be true — can it be true! [Sinks in chair.'] 

Hanz. — {^Excited.'] How vas dot ! Somepodies sdeal der 
gals? You know dot berson? Vot he look like? 

Mrs. S. — \_Gives discription.'] For heaven's sake, man, be 
quick, and summon aid to rescue them! I have no money to 
offer you — nothing but a mother's blessing! 

Hanz. — Shust iiefer mindt pout monies und dem kindt of 
tings. I vas got a heart so pig like von gallon shug, und I vas 
lofe doze shilderns so moch ash minezelf. Cume, right avay 
quick, und I vas dake you mit der hodel, vere you sday dill 
der shilderns vas pin voundt. 

3Irs. S. — I will go with you. Perhaps 'twill be best, 
^ans;.— Shust lock der toor und leaf der tings dill mornings. 
Only dot I dake der guns so tey didn't vas got sdolen. 

Mrs. S. — Come; no time must be lost. [Exit both. Curtain.'] 



ACT III. 

Scene 1. — Open Woods ^ set in 1. Enter Hanz^ B. 
Hanz. — Vel, dis vas a vine bickle vat Lamar got minezelf in. 
He say dot I shust vait mit tese voods, und he cume right avay 
quick. I pet me dwo tollar und fufcy cent dot he vas pin lost. 
I eadt me von lunch vile I vait mit him. [Sits C. Gets onion.] 
Dot's an onion. Vone of der sdrongest tings vat nature vas e.er 
broduce. [Gets cheese.] Dot's sheeze—Limburger sheeze. You 
vas sdick him von der rich groundt, vere he sday a vile, und 
pye und pye der nose vas vind him oudt more quicker ash der 
onion. Of I vas got for five cent peer I vould feels potter. Nix 
peer dis dime. No tings von der pig voods put pears und tings 
like dot. Pig plack pears, too; vat eadt ub sauerkraut Dutch- 
man. I vish dot I vas got vone jasacks — vone of doze nize 
kindt, poudt so gross, vot didn't vas got der packs ub und 
shake handts pehindt. [Draics revolvers.] I vonder of der oldt 
brescribtion cases vas all right. I vas puy dem of der bawn 
prokers— dwo tollar und fufcy cent a biece. Tey vas puy dem 
pack vor a tollar. Of you vas got von der pehindt zide, und 
douch der sbring, it vas drow oudt zeven bills. Dot vas kildt 
or cure efrey dimes; shust like der brescribtion caze von der 
trug sdore. Nix gude schnaps pehindt tem, [Rises.] Dot 
willian, he sdeal a poat dot night und dake der gals mit der 



21 

Hudson. I tink me dot he purn der poat und dake der gals 
mit der pig moundains in, or some tings like dot. May pe dot 
Lamar vindt der drail, und vas gone some oder vay. I go mit 
der pig moundains onyvaj^ — may pe dot I vindt oudt some- 
tings. Fer domdt und tuyvel! he vas make me efrey tings 
oudt. Der bark vas pin pusted vide shud of I sday avay some 
more. I kill him, und led der puzzards eadt him. I vas shust 
make him zeven holes mit der oldt brescribtion caze; den he 
vas make no more drouples mit der gals. Py shimminies, I 
vas pin madt! und of I vind him oudt he know dot. Ven I 
vas got von tob mine ear, shust look a leedle oudt. \_Exit Ham 
L. This scene to be opened quickly for scene 2.] 



Scene 2. — A ivild, romwitic^ Mountain Grotto scene. A Camp 
Fire C. Dinner being prepared by Grace, Pearl is discov- 
m ered sitting L. C, and Rockmore on i2., loith pencil and 
mennorandmn book^ writing. 

Grace. — Will your royal highness condescend to assume the 
laborious task of getting some fewel? The fire burns low, and 
must be attended to. Since w^e are forbidden to step twenty 
paces from the grotto, I suppose we must look to you for fewel 
or go hungry. 

Rockmore. — I see you have begun to display some of your 
mother's peerishness. Remember, you are in my power; and 
if you persist in insulting remarks I shall teach you to know 
what it is to be hungry before I have done with you! 

Pearl. — Please, sir, may I get some wood? 

Rockmore. — No ! 

Pearl. — There is some lying over there. I won't go far ? 

Rockmore. — No! no! 

Pearl. — Mean thing! I wish a big bear would come here 
right now, and eat you up! 

Rockmore.— You are a chip off the old block too, eh? I 
wish to hear no more from you. 

Pearl. — You are the meanest man in all this big world. If 
Hanz was here I'd tell him to whip you, too, so I would. 
[Goes to Grace^ weeping.'] I want my mama. 

Grace. — \^Petting her.] D.on't cry. Pearl. We have to do as 
he says now. But it won't be long until someone will find us. 
Why, Pearl, your heart flutters like a little bird when over- 
powered by a monster snake. \^To Rockmore.] Coward that 



22 

you are, to speak so harshly to a little child I Jean stand your 
taunts and jeers; yet I would sooner die than have you utter 
one word to break her young heart. During our captivity I 
have consoled her with the idea that nothing serious had hap- 
pened us, and cheered the little soul with the thought that 
mama was coming soon to spend a while in the mountains for 
recreation, and then take us home. To-day you have broken 
the charm, and she begins to see things in their true light. 
Oh! how I wish God would smite you to the earth and blot 
you out of existan ce* forever ! 

Bockmore. — Such utterances go for naught. The echo, as it 
resounds from your cell within, falls flat upon the ear like a 
hollow mockery. But enough. The note I have just been 
writing, is to your mother. If she accepts the proposition, and 
will pay the ransom I ask, the freedom of these desolate sur- 
roundings are at your command. Though the sacrifice may 
seem great, yet I shall test the depth of the love she bears her 
children. When you have finished your meal, I shall return 
you to your cell, and then mail this at the nearest station. So 
lose no time, for the journey is a tiresome one, and I must re- 
turn before the shades of night begin to fall. 

Grace. — If it is to exact something from mama that she 
would not do with her own free will, a just God will not per- 
mit it, when appealed to from the hearts of two defenceless 
souls. Kneel, sister — kneel with me — while I pray to our 
Heavenly Father tu spare our dear mama from falling into the 
hands of such a monster! \^They kneel.'] 

Rockmore, — Get up, you little devils! and go to your cell — 
or I shall flog you both within an inch of your life! 

Grace. — \^As they rise Grace looks left and sees Ham.'] Now, 

monster! your fate will be sealed! Our prayer is answered ! 

Help is close at hand ! 

Pearl. — [^Runs back and sees Hanz.] Goodie, goodie, goodie ! 
it's Hanz ! 

Rockmore. — Curse you! ^Rushes Grace upon the ground L. 

She screams. Rockmore draws revolver and steps behind tree R.] 

Hanz. — [ Without.] Somepodies vas got kilt? Vat's der mad- 
der, somehow? [^Enters L., 2 E.] Aha! it vas you! Vere ish 
der fer domdt scoundrel vat makes der droubles? I vas shust 
eadt him ub, und sbit him oudt von der groundt ! 

Pearl. — lPoi7iting.] There he is, Hanz. Look out ; he's go- 
ing to shoot you ! 



23 

Mockmore. — ISpringing from tree.'] Stand ! Throw up your 
hands ! 

Hanz. — I vill! I vill ! Don'd shood ! I vas pin funnins ! Shust 
holdt dot brescribtion caze high town von der groundt a leedle, 
of you blease. 

Rockmore. — Pearl, get the revolver from the Dutchman, and 
bring it to me! \^Does so, weeping.] 

Pearl. — Please, sir, don't shoot Hanz. He is such a good 
man. \^Goes back C. crying.'] 

Hans. — I make you vone brezent mit der bistol, und it vas a 
pully gude vone. T go pack und dells Lamar dot you vas not 
mit der pig moundains in; und dot it vas petter ve go home 
und sday mit der pizness. 

Rockmore. — Not much. You were on my trail, and would 
have shot me down in cold blood had you gotten the first drop. 
The man who seeks my life, or seeks to frustrate my plans, 
never lives to boast of it. 

Hanz. — I vas no sedder tog ter go mit der drail on ; und I 
didn't vas could shood a vlock of pulls. Mine goodness gra- 
cious, Mr. gude mans, you vas not shood a poor Dutchman 
vat's got no fader und mooter? Und mine frau she kick vone 
large pucket of her Hanz vas durn mit der does ub. 

Rockmore.— ^0 not waste your breath in idle words. If you 
are a praying saint, drop to your knees! In one minute you 
may take a peep into the future. 

Hanz. — Boo-hoo-hoo! Mine Godt un Heimel, vot I do! Der 
bark vas pin pusted vide shud of I got shood ! Boo-hoo-hoo ! 
{^Hanz dodges about until he gets close to and immediately in front 
of Grace, then kneels.] 

Grace. — [Half -kneeling.] Sir, have pitty on him! He is at 
your mercy. You can imprison him within the cave, until 
you remove us, and then free him. He will never seek to 
harm you again. Think of what you are about to do, and have 
compassion on the poor soul! IGraee sees the revolver in his 
coat-tail pocket, and cautiously gets it.] 

Pearl. — IKheeling.] Please don't kill my Hanz ! He w^ouldn't 
hurt you ! 

Rochmore. — \^Flendishly .] Shut up! His death will prove 
a warning to others ! If you have anything to say — say it 
quick! Time is precious ! 

Hanz. — I vas nix harm onypodies von der whole life ; und 



24 

1 vas gife you der whole pizness mit der bark of you but dot 
tings avay. I didn't vas know dot you sdeal der gals, und— 

Pearl. — [^Jumping up and pointing behind Hockmore,'] Look 
there— behind you! 

lHockmore wheels quickly. Grace rises and shoots him as he 
turns back to face Ham. He throws up his hands ^ drops pistol, 
reels and falls. Hanz falls forward with face burried in his arms, 

Hanz.— [Kicking and yelling.'] I vas kilt ! I vas a deadt 
Dutchman! I vas pin a pig sdiff ! \^Grace drops revolver^ and 
sadly walks back C. Pearl runs and tragically gazes on Bock- 
more^ then sees Hans, smiles as she points at him; steals upon him 
quickly, and sits upon his bach.] 

Pearl.— Who2i ! whoa, now ! Get up ; the other man is shot ; 
you aren't hurt! 

Hanz. — [Peeping around at Pearl.] Ish dot so? Who done 
dot? [ Gets off broad grin, and Pearl rises.] 

Pearl. — Grace shot him. 

Hanz.—\_Bising.] Py shimminies! I tot der olt brescribtion 
caze vas oxblode von der coat dail. Vat vor you ride me dot 
vay — you tot I vas pin a jasacks? [Business examining coat 
tail, etc.] 

Pearl. — You kicked like one. 

Hanz. — Vel, py shimminies; I vas not shood! 

Bockmore. — [Struggles; gets upon hands; calls in husky voice:] 
Grace! Grace! [She goes to him. Hanz picks up pistol Grace 
dropped— funny business — then he and Pearl follow Grace.] 

Hanz. — Vas you gone deadt, sure? [Baises him in half sit- 
ting position.] 

Bockmore.— Yes. It will all be over with me in a minute or 
so. Ease me gently. I wish to speak with Grace a moment. 

Grace.— [Bendig over him.] Yes, yes! I am listening! 

Bockmore.— The last time you were at the park, you spoke 
of wishing to know who it was that had so wronged your 
mother ; and in a toast, expressed the desire of meeting, face to 
face, your father's assassin. 

Grace. — Yes, yes! It was — 

Bockmore.— 1—1 am that wretch ! [Pearl weeps silently.] 

Gr^ace. — Great heavens! can it be true? 

Hanz. — Py shimminies ! vas dot so ! 

Bockmore. — Remove this beard from my face, and the wig 
from my head, and you can then look upon Charles Rockmore; 



25 

the man who has so basely wronged your mother, and made 
you two children fatherless! 

Ham. — [^Taking off loig^ etc.'] Py shimminies! der vellers 
vot I keeb me vone eye oben mit der bark! 

G^race. — Oh! why, why could you be so cruel? 

Rockmore. — I was born a villian, and yet I loved the noblest 
woman on earth — your mother! I did it all because she would 
not be my wife. I should have murdered both you children, 
and then her, had she refused my last proposition — contained 
in the letter written a while ago. You, you have saved her 
and yourselves — and avenged your father's death. \^Ch'ace and 
Pearl clasp each other in loving embrace, and weep silently.'] I 
have no near relatives left on earth either to mourn or glorify 
over my death. Inside my pocket, here, is a check-book. Get 
it for me, and I will sign a check, in favor of your mother, for 
all I have left — four times the amount I robbed your father of. 
[^Hanz gets check-book — raises him in position to ivrite— places 
pencil, etc., in his hand.] Curse the fatal bullet! Hold me 
steady, for my life is fast ebing out. [JEnter Lamar, L. 2 E.; 
takes in the situation at a glance, and silently views the result.] 
New York, June 30. The Hudson River Banking House, pay 
to Mrs. George Sterling — formerly Silvia Lamar — 

Lamar. — \_Aside.] Silvia Lamar! 

Rockmore. — The sum of twenty thousand dollars. Charles 
Rockmore. ^Dropps pencil and book — tries to rise.] 

Ham. — Py shimminies! dot vas pust you all ub! 

Rockmore. — Look ! look ! your father has come from above 
to witness my signature ! [He sinks back, and expires. Tableau. 
Curtain.] 



ACT IV. 

Scene 1. — Draiving-room at the home of Harry Lamar. Every- 
thing denoting taste and comfort. Center table, foot-stool, 
chairs, etc. Portrait of George Sterling on easel. At rise of 
Curtain Mrs. O ^Donavan is discovered dusting table. 

Mrs. O^D. — Sure an* I'm afther makin' things nate enough 
for a saint. The Mrs. — bless her swate soul — has had a toime 
av it restin' an' atin' good things since I brought her from the 
noisy hotil. Hanz, the awkward baste, was afther lavin' av 
her a long o' the dirthy place, an' cooped up among strangers, 
whin he moit as will brought her here to-wonst. An' if it wasn't 



26 

for the mournin' afther her two swate offsprings she'd be as 
happy an' cuntint as a virgin. She would that same. Sure an' 
its inesilf as can make the loikes o' her feel to-home. An' its 
the upper-crust o' the village as hav' called on her ivery day 
to ixpriss their feelin's an opinions about the darlints as was 
stholen. Bad luck to the loikes o' the barin as wud do sich a 
thing. [Unter 3Irs. Sterling, and slowly approaches chair at the 
center table,'] An' its mesilf that's o' thinkin' the darlints will 
be here afore the sun goes down. An' — 

Mrs. S. — Any news from Mr. Lamar or Hanz, whilst I have 
been napping? 

3Irs. O^D. — Niver a bit, mam, niver a bit. But its mesilf as 
was thinkin' we'd hear good news afore the sun goes down. 
By the holy saints I'm afther feelin' it in me bones. The 
gintry from all around hav' returned, bringin' av no news 
whativer. An' that's why I'm afther thinkin' as Mr. Lamar 
an' Hanz hav' found the darlints, because they hav' sint no 
word or brought thimsilves. 

Mrs. S. — Possibly, they may have gotten some clue, and 
have traveled much farther than did the rest. 

3frs. O'Z).— Don't now — don't be a lookin' on the dark side 
o' things. Sure an' the bright side is dark enough for the 
poor cratures o' this worlt. Here is a late paper ; so sit down 
an' rade the news while I see to havin' a good supper on the 
way. lExit Mrs. O'Z).] 

Mrs. 8. — \_8its, and toys with paper.] I cannot read, or do 
aught but think of my poor babes. Nearly two weeks have 
passed, and yet no definite clue as to how or where they were 
taken. The sail-boat that was stolen on that fatal night was 
seen heading towards the Catskill range ; and when hailed by 
some fishermen, who recognized the craft, no response greeted 
them. Mr. Lamar and the German followed this clue; but no 
word comes to tell with what result. I wish Mr. Lamar would 
soon return, for I am anxious to know the worst; and to learn 
from what family of Lamars he comes. My long estranged 
brother bore the same name. After the death of our dear 
father and mother, we lost all trace of each other. Oh ! why, 
why do they not even write me a few lines at least, and tell 
me whether or not any trace of my dear children has been 
found? This suspense will surely kill me. [^Rises.] I believe 
I shall go to my room, and look out upon the river. There is 



27 

a gentleness about the view that gives me rest. [As shejDcisses 
out, stops by portrait.'] Oh, husband! would that you were 
here, to give me counsel! \^Exit Mrs. S. Enter Mrs. O^D.] 

Mrs. O^D. — By the holy Saint Patrick, if she hasn't gone 
back to her room to pine away in solitude! Faith an' its a bit 
o' news I was afther bringin' o' her; For the gintleman as 
jist drove past the house, says to me— says he — "Sure an' it 
was Hanz I was afther meetin' on the road wid two little girls 
along o' his side a comin' this way." Its afther waitin' now 
I'll be till I learn the straight av it afore I brake the news. 
[Enter Lamar.] Bless yes! spake av the flowers an' its a bo- 
quet ye'll be afther gitin'. An' its glad I am that ye are back. 

Lamar. — Thanks. Where is Mrs, Sterling? 

Mrs. O'^D. — In the guest's chamber forenist the river view. 

Lamar. — Has she learned of our arrival? 

Mrs. O^D. — Niver a word, 

Lamar. — Hanz and I stopped at the hotel with the children, 
expecting to find Mrs. Sterling there, but was informed you 
had graciously induced her to come here and enjoy the quiet- 
ness of our home. 

3frs. O^D. — That I did. An' its sure I was ye'd be afther a 
foindin' av the darlints. So I says to mesilf— says I: 'Twould 
plase the loikes av yes to hav' the poor crature snugly cared 
for in yer own house. 

Lamar. — Good. And now we will have a double surprise 
for her. The children and Hanz will be here in a few minutes; 
so go to the door and be ready to receive them. I came in 
advance so as to break the news gently to their mother. 

Mrs. O^D. — The Mrs. is very ristless, an' moite step in any 
minute. Plase sthay here to receive her while I watch for the 
darlints. [Exit Mrs. O'D.] 

Lamar. — [Sitting at center table.] A strange coincidence will 
have been brought about if this Mrs. Sterling is really Silvia 
Lamar — my sister — whom for years I had supposed w^as resting 
above with her parents. Hum ! Queer I did not think to 
question Grace upon the matter. She certainly could have 
apprised me of the fact. I shall summons Mrs. Sterling and 
find out. [Rises and faces door just as Mrs. S. enters. Tableau.] 

M7's. 8. — [Aside.] "A stranger here!" Excuse me, sir. I 
was not aware of the presence of anyone — else I should not 
have intruded. 



28 

Lamiar. — No offense, I assure you. Any guest in the house 
of Harry Lamar has the freedom of the premises. 

Mrs. /S. — And do I address Mr. Lamar? [Boivs in acknowl- 
edgement.'] My children — where are they? Have they been 
rescued ? 

Lamar. — Yes. They are safe — and will be here in a few 
minutes. 

3frs. S, — Heaven be praised ! 

Lamar. — Charles Rockmore is dead. With his last breath 
he spoke your maiden name — "Silvia Lamar!" If he called 
it rightly, I firmly believe you to be— my sister! lUxtends 
his hands to receive her. She rushes to him.] 

Mrs. S. — Oh, Harry! my long lost brother! [Bests her head 
upon his bosom — tableau — then he leads her to a chair.] 

Lamar. — Be seated, whilst I explain. Nearly twenty years 
ago I stood within our little vine-covered cottage and bade 
father, mother, and a bright-eyed sister an affectionate farewell. 
With the lessons for truth, sobriety, honesty and industry still 
ringing in my ears, that had been taught me from childhood, 
I stepped forth into the cold world to battle with the surging 
tide of my fellow-men in the far west. On arriving in Califor- 
nia, I wrote home a detailed account of my venture. 

Mrs. S. — I have that letter now, and two others we received 
shortly before our parents died. 

Lamar. — I am glad of that. For ten long years I labored 
in the mining districts, and finally discovered a lead that 
yielded a goodly fortune. Five years later I sold my claim, 
returned east, and settled here. I did not receive your letter, 
conveying the news of our parent's death, for some time after 
they were hurried. I answered immediately, but received no 
reply. 

Mrs. S. — Shortly after writing you I went to Philadelphia to 
live with our aunt. While there I graduated ; and before I 
had fully resolved upon any definite course to persue for my 
future welfare, I became enamored with George Sterling, and 
married. 

Za???«r.— Where and when did you form the acquaintance of 
this man Rockmore? 

Mrs. /S.— In Philadelphia. He was the only son and heir of 
a wealthy sea captain. He attended the same school, and con- 
tinually pushed himself into my presence. When I attended 



29 

a party, or the opera, he was sure to be there. He shadowed 
my every movement like a detective would that of a culpret. 
One evening, I rebuked him severely, and bade him never 
speak to me again. He seemed highly insulted, and said I 
should remember the rebuke until my dying day. He has 
kept good his word. 

Lamar. — He was a bold and desperate man. And since he 
is no more, let him rest. 

31rs, (S. — [Rises and ajyproaches portrait.'] Here is the portrait 
of my noble husband, who's innocent life was taken by the 
hand of an assassin, five years ago, while in mid sea, on our 
way to Liverpool. Though he was what the world would call 
poor, yet he was a true husband — a kind and generous father. 
Constantly before me do I keep the likeness which portrays 
him to the eye, while shrouded in my heart are the deeds of 
his true manliness. Yet far away rests his earthly remains 
'neath the cold, surging waves. 

Lamar. — Sad, indeed, it is, my noble sister, that two jeweled 
hearts, so closely united by the laws of nature, should be so 
severed, while the love that binds them is the strongest. 

Mrs. O^D. — [ Ushers in children and Hanz.~\ Sure an' there's 
yer swate mither. \_Exit Mrs, O^D.] 

3£rs. S. — [Tmms from portrait to receive them — kneels.'] Oh! 
my babies ! my babies I 

Grace and Pearl. — My mama ! [ They clasp her in loving em- 
brace^ etc.'] 

Mrs. fS. — God bless you, my children! Happiness, like 
troubles, seldom comes singly. I have just learned that Mr. 
Lamar, your friend and benefactor, is my brother— your uncle. 

Hanz. — Dot zettles der pizness. No more shilderns mit der 
bark in. [Lamar extends his hands to greet them as they go to him] 

La7nar. —YeSj dear children; and right proud I am, too, of 
having the honor of being such to you. 

Grace. — Oh ! how happy I am to call you uncle. Ever since 
our meeting in the park T have felt that we ought to be related. 

Pearl. — I'm awful glad, because you were so good to us. 
[Lamar sits C; takes Pearl on right knee^ and Grace sits by left^ 
on foot-stool.] 

Mrs. >S'.— And now, Mr. Kophfderheim— 

Hans.— [Coming foricad.] Dond you vas preak der shaw mit 
dot name. Shust calls me Hanz. 



30 

Mrs. S. — How am I ever to repay you for your kindness? 

Hanz. — Shust nefer mindt poudt dot. Here vas der sheck 
vat der rascal make oudt mit you. [Hands it to her.'] 

Mrs. S. — What's this ! Charles Rockmore signs a check to 
me for twenty thousand dollars ! 

Hanz. — Yah. Dot's anoder surbrize. 

Mrs. S. — I suppose I shall be compelled to accept the money. 
Well, Hanz, I am aware the park will soon be offered for sale, 
and I shall take particular pains to have the deed transferred 
to you. The rest of the money shall, from time to time, be 
distributed among the poor of our village. Not one dollar 
shall ever be used for myself or children. [Enter Mrs. O^ D.] 

Mrs. O^D — Its a lether for Hanz I hav'. Sure an' the bi as 
brought it said it would plase the loikes av him to recave it in 
a hurry. So there it is. [Exit Mrs. O^D.] 

Hanz. — [Coming forward opens letter. Mrs. S. steps close to 
Lamar and rests her hands on his shoulder. Hanz says:] Py 
shimminies! vas dot so? [He begins to laugh and ery at the 
same time, and is much excited.] 

Lamar. — What is it, Hans? 

Hanz. — Der toctor vas wride me vone leedle ledder, und he 
zay — und he zay — und he zay — ha, ha, ha! Dot I vas pin a 
father! [Chorus — laughing.] Oxcuse me. It vas petter I go 
home. [Going.] 

All. — Good bye, Hanz. [Exit Hanz.] 

Pearl. — Uncle, are we going to live in this nice big house 
with you? 

Lamar. — Yes, I hope so. 

Pearl. — And won't mama have to sew and work any more? 

Lamar. — No, not necessarily. 

Pearl. — And will you be just like a father to Grace and I? 

Lamar. — I shall try very hard to be. 

Pearl. — Then I shall always love you, and mind you just 
like I do mama. [She rests her head on his bosom.] Good night, 
mama. Good night, sister. Good night, all. [ Goes to sleep. 
The orchestra play softly some farewell strains as the Curtain 
slowly decends.] 



I dedicate this Drama to my daugliter, 

BEULAH BROWN; 

That, on entering the stage, she may assist in portraying to 

the minds of the public, true womanhood — who's heart 

is set with tender love — Heaven's choicest jewel. 

And may she ever appear to others, as now to me: 

"Graceful in all her steps ; 

Heaven in her eye; 

In every gesture dignity and love." 



Erratum: In the first two acts the name "Stz'rling" 
should be spelled "Sterling." 



